The Gilded Age: Where it all Began for the United States

The commencement of the Gilded Age after the end of the Reconstruction period in 1877 sparked domestic change and reform for the United States that transformed the nation in economic, social, and political aspects (Thesis). The economy prospered due to the development of railroads and industrial and agricultural expansion, creating jobs for citizens and an efficient method to produce and transport goods throughout the nation (Claim #1). Social advancements such as Jane Addam’s foundation of the Hull House in 1889 and the establishment of the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA) in 1890 demonstrates the achievements made for America that benefited the citizens of society (Claim #2). Despite the progression of the nation economically and socially, the political perspective of America plummeted due to corrupt governmental figures and disputes over how to reform domestic issues (Claim #3). In comparison to 1877, the differences in American reform until the year 1900 overall benefitted society and impacted the future of the nation (Claim #4).
The modifications made to America since the start of the Gilded Age in 1877 demonstrate how advancements in the economy benefited the nation as a whole (Topic Sentence). The rise of industry, the dominance of wage labor, and the growth of cities gave numerous job opportunities for skilled and unskilled workers, introduced an abundance of raw materials such as coal and oil, and manufactured improvements in transportation, communication, and labor-saving devices that saved productivity (SF). The development of the nation’s first transcontinental railroad in 1869 unified the east and west and allowed for more of the interstate transportation of goods to travel across the country in an efficient amount of time (SF). The establishment of the Interstate Commerce Act in 1887 provided reasonable rates for railroads to operate and regulated the industry and its monopolistic practices (SF). Enhancement in